London Tunnels to Open as UK’s Deepest Bar in $156M Revamp

London’s Hidden Tunnels Set to Unveil UK’s Deepest Bar in $156M Revamp. This is reported by the railway transport news portal Railway Supply.

Developers will transform the London Tunnels into a top tourist destination soon. This underground network sits 40 meters below the capital’s bustling streets.

London Tunnels: A Historical Transformation

Workers dug these passages by hand in 1940 to shield residents from war. However, the Blitz ended early, leaving the tunnels unused for shelter purposes.

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Consequently, officials repurposed them into a telecommunications hub for espionage activities. The Special Operations Executive ran covert missions from this hidden base.

Famed writer Ian Fleming drew inspiration here for James Bond’s gadgets. His intelligence work shaped the Q Branch in his thrilling novels.

After hostilities ceased, British Telecom operated the site until the 1980s. They even hosted the UK’s deepest bar for employees back then.

For nearly 70 years, secrecy cloaked the network under government rules. BT sold the underground complex in 2008 after declassification.

What the London Tunnels Offer Tourists Today?

Angus Murray, a former banker, now drives this $156 million project forward. He plans a Blitz tribute with museums and entertainment spaces.

Architects Wilkinson-Eyre will showcase artifacts in a “History and Heritage” zone. Meanwhile, an “Arts and Culture” area will feature rotating exhibits.

The main draw, though, remains a bar deep beneath the surface. Guests can enjoy Vesper Martinis, nodding to the spy legacy.

The website forecasts two million annual visitors to this attraction. Experts predict it could rank among the world’s most exciting spots.

Timeline and Impact of the Underground Project

Murray likens its appeal to the London Eye’s massive draw today. That landmark pulls in millions yearly since its 2000 debut.

Yet, eager travelers must hold off on visiting this unique site. Renovations on the 86,000-square-foot space begin late next year.

Because of this, the underground complex opens in late 2027 likely. Alternatively, early 2028 remains possible depending on construction speed.

Authorities approved the $156 million venture after last year’s reviews. This budget promises a fresh experience for all visitors.

This overhaul fuses history, culture, and innovation for London’s guests. It reimagines a once-secret space into a public marvel.

Why This Project Matters Now?

Developers aim to honor wartime resilience while boosting tourism significantly. The London Tunnels blend education with fun in a fresh way.

So, this site shifts from obscurity to a celebrated visitor hub. It stands poised to captivate with stories and unique drinks.

Source: metro.co.uk

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